News

Running a red light is extremely dangerous

Aug. 3, 2020For more information: Kelly Kapri, Safety Division program manager, 503-507-1783SALEM – How many times have you run a red light… or seen someone do it? If you’re still alive, you’re lucky. Red light running is a significant cause of serious injury crashes in Oregon. Because it often results in T-bone crashes, red light running can cause debilitating brain injury and death. It is essential that every driver in Oregon heed the warning to Stop on Red. Now through Aug. 8 is National Stop On Red

TSA Approves 90-day HME Exemption

TSA has approved an extension of the HME Exemption that allowed states to issue an extension of up to 180 days for HMEs expiring between March 1, 2020 – July 31, 2020.  The 90-day extension makes the new exemption period for HMEs that would otherwise expire between March 1, 2020 – October 29, 2020.  This message serves as advance notification to stakeholders. TSA will provide an update with a link to the actual exemption posted to the Federal Register when it becomes available.  Below are some frequently

Trucking Safety Summit Public Meeting August 5, 2020

AGENCY:   Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), DOT.  ACTION:  Notice of public meeting.  SUMMARY:   FMCSA announces a public meeting: “The FMCSA 2020 Trucking Safety Summit.” This meeting will be held virtually on August 5, 2020, to solicit information on improving the safe operation of property-carrying commercial motor vehicles on our Nation's roadways. The virtual meeting will provide interested stakeholders—including motor carriers, drivers, safety technology developers and users,

The Long Haul

The Long HaulJuly 14, 2020Written by Sander GusinowPublished in Travel and Transportation Photo: Oregon Trucking AssociationDrivers receive food and water at a Meals for Drivers event, hosted by the Oregon Trucking AssociationsThe COVID-19 pandemic has presented roadblocks for truckers, but a renewed interest in the profession has created opportunities.  As the nation offers thanks to health care workers and employees of grocery stores that remain open to provide food and household essentials, it is easy

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Announces Historic Rule on Tribal Transportation Self-Governance

Tuesday, June 2, 2020 WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) today published a final rule to establish the Tribal Transportation Self-Governance Program at DOT. This new program will provide a flexible, effective framework for the Federal government and Indian tribes (Tribes) to work collaboratively to improve transportation infrastructure delivery in Indian country. “The Tribal Transportation Self-Governance Program will boost prospects for economic growth and enhance quality of life by

Brake Safety Week is Set for Aug. 23-29

Greenbelt, Maryland (July 8, 2020) – The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) Brake Safety Week will proceed as scheduled, Aug. 23-29. Enforcement officials will inspect commercial motor vehicles throughout the week and vehicles found to have critical out-of-service brake violations, or other critical vehicle out-of-service inspection item violations, will be restricted from traveling until those violations are corrected. Vehicles that pass eligible inspections may receive a passed-inspection CVSA

Vista Ridge Tunnel nighttime lane closures begin 7/13 for ODOT lighting replacement

Vista Ridge Tunnel lane closures begin in July ODOT will be replacing all of the lights in both directions of the Vista Ridge Tunnel with LED fixtures. The work is scheduled to begin Monday, July 13 and last for four weeks. The work will include nighttime two-lane closures in one direction of the tunnel at a time along with ramp closures during the westbound tunnel work. See below for specifics about each stage of traffic impacts. The schedule is subject to change and the most current information can

Guidance on Interpreting COVID-19 Test Results

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Governor Kate Brown Extends Face Coverings Requirement Statewide

Face covering requirements apply to indoor public spaces, take effect on Wednesday, July 1    (Portland, OR) — Governor Kate Brown announced today that Oregonians statewide will be required to wear face coverings in indoor public spaces, beginning this Wednesday July 1. The guidance applies to businesses and members of the public visiting indoor public spaces. Face covering requirements are already mandated in eight counties. “From the beginning of the reopening process, I have said that reopening

WTA Mask Info

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New Research Documents the Scale of Nuclear Verdicts in Trucking

Arlington, VA – The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) today released comprehensive research that confirms that large verdicts against trucking fleets are increasing dramatically, both in number and in size of awards. ATRI’s research is partially based on a newly created trucking litigation database that provides detailed information on 600 cases between 2006 and 2019. In the first five years of the data, there were 26 cases over $1 million, and in the last five years of the data, there were

State extends emergency orders for most common types of insurance

The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services’ Division of Financial Regulation extended its emergency orders for property and casualty, long-term care, and life and disability insurance.   The orders mean that the most common insurance policies, such as auto, home, term and whole life, and long-term care provide one-time minimum grace periods for people to pay premiums and protect them by mandating how long claims must be paid. See this chart for details.   The emergency order extensions

State of Oregon announces telehealth agreement for health insurance plans

Salem – The State of Oregon has reached an agreement with several health insurance companies to continue providing expanded telehealth options through at least Dec. 31, 2020.  “Throughout this pandemic, telehealth has provided Oregonians with essential access to health care services that otherwise might have been unavailable or required the risk of an in-person appointment,” said Gov. Kate Brown. “It has transformed how many people have accessed behavioral health services. I’d like to thank Oregon’s

Oregon DEQ to reopen Multnomah County vehicle inspection stations on June 30, but there’s no rush

Date: June 23, 2020 State rules require customers to wear face coverings as of June 24 at Clackamas, Multnomah and Washington County locations Statewide, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality will reopen its Gresham and Northeast Portland vehicle inspection stations on Tuesday, June 30, in accordance with Multnomah County COVID-19 safety guidelines. The Medford-Ashland, Clackamas, Hillsboro/Sunset, Sherwood and Scappoose stations reopened last week and have been experiencing long lines

Legal Issues Ahead for Structural Plywood Licensing Agencies

Product Advisory warns of unsafe plywood from Brazil sold in American markets Testing proved imported Brazilian plywood panels have massive failure rates   LYONS, ORE. JUNE 11, 2020 — This week, the U.S. Structural Plywood Integrity Coalition made up of ten U.S. Plywood producers including Oregon’s Freres Lumber Co., issued Product Advisory notices regarding Brazilian structural plywood. The distribution of the notices is the result of a motion for preliminary injunction filed on June 5 by the

Trucking Advisory: FMCSA Issues 90 Day Extension Waiver

June 16, 2020 Today, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration announced an extension of their prior CDL Waiver. FMCSA granted a waiver on March 24, 2020 covering various regulatory provisions affecting CDL holders, CLP holders, and drivers operating CMVs (non-CDL drivers) that is set to expire on June 30, 2020. The waiver has been extended to September 30, 2020. For Oregon, this means we will maintain the status quo for the enforcement of the federal regulations covered by the prior waiver. The

DEQ requests patience as vehicle inspection stations reopen

Date: June 15, 2020Statewide, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality will reopen many of its vehicle inspection stations beginning this week. Today, the Medford-Ashland station will begin offering inspection services; while the Clackamas, Sherwood and Hillsboro/Sunset stations will reopen tomorrow, June 16; and the Scappoose station will reopen on Friday, June 19. The agency asks the public for patience as the staff works within new COVID-19-related procedures and through a backlog of

Breaking: SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans and Advance Program Reopened

To further meet the needs of U.S. small businesses and non-profits, the U.S. Small Business Administration reopened the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and EIDL Advance program portalto all eligible applicants experiencing economic impacts due to COVID-19 today. “The SBA is strongly committed to working around the clock, providing dedicated emergency assistance to the small businesses and non-profits that are facing economic disruption due to the COVID-19 impact.  With the reopening of the EIDL

CCB EXTENSION – Temporary Rule Allowing Deferral of License Renewal September 14, 2020

While the re-opening process has begun it is also an incredibly busy time in the construction calendar, made more hectic by COVID-19. As such, the CCB is allowing additional time for contractors to temporarily defer renewal of their contractor license through September 14, 2020. This is the maximum we are able to extend this allowance using temporary rule authority. Contractors are still encouraged to renew on time if circumstances allow them to do so. Contractors who have deferred should take steps to

Eric Parker, ATA Vice President of Membership Sales, Dies at 50

Eric Scott Parker, who grew up in a trucking family and spent his professional career in the industry, died suddenly on May 11. He was 50. Parker, of Boulder, Colo., most recently served as vice president of membership sales for American Trucking Associations. A family member attributed the cause of death to a “cardiac event.”     Parker, the son of Nancy and the late David Parker — who also was a trucking executive — spent the past 31 years of his working life in the industry. “Eric’s suddenly

State extends emergency order for health insurance companies

The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services extended its emergency order for health insurance companies through July 3, 2020.    The order requires health insurance companies to do the following for their customers during the COVID-19 outbreak:Provide at least a 60-day grace period to pay any past-due premiumsPay claims for any covered services during the first 30 days of the grace periodExtend all deadlines for reporting claims and other communications, and provide members with communication

Oregon OSHA offers free educational video on COVID-19 requirements in farm operations

Salem – Oregon OSHA has launched a free educational video to help employers and workers understand the requirements of a temporary rule that strengthens protections against the spread of the coronavirus in employer-provided housing and labor-intensive farm operations.   The 12-minute video – available in both English and Spanish – uses engaging graphics and concise narration to give an overview of the rule’s three key parts: field sanitation, labor housing, and transportation.   “This is a challenging

ATRI Issues Call for Motor Carriers to Participate in Annual Operational Costs Data Collection

Arlington, VA – The American Transportation Research Institute today issued a call for motor carriers to participate in ATRI’s annual update to its Operational Costs of Trucking report. Now in its 12th year, ATRI’s annual Operational Costs of Trucking collects cost information derived directly from trucking fleets and owner-operators, and is among the most requested ATRI research studies. ATRI’s annual analysis is used as a key benchmarking tool by motor carriers of all sizes. Public sector agencies also

9-day Closure Interstate Bridge September 2020

PROJECT OVERVIEW The northbound span of the Interstate Bridge will close from September 12–20, 2020 as crews replace mechanical parts that help lift and lower the bridge. The southbound span will remain open to traffic in both directions. Traffic impacts will occur throughout August and September of 2020. The Interstate Bridge is located on Interstate 5 where it connects Oregon and Washington across the Columbia River.CONSTRUCTION IMPACTS August–October 2020 While the heaviest traffic impacts will

State issues emergency orders for most common types of insurance

Salem – The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services’ Division of Financial Regulation issued emergency orders for property and casualty, long-term care, and life and disability insurance. The orders mean that the most common insurance policies, such as auto, home, term and whole life, and long-term care have specific minimum grace periods to pay premiums and protect consumers by mandating how long claims must be paid. See this chart for details.    “Grace periods are an important resource for

Your number is next: DMV offers more services by appointment-only

SALEM – A limited selection of in-person services will now be available at 40 DMV offices across the state. Starting Monday, June 1, you can call to schedule a time most convenient for you to get your DMV business done. Appointments will begin on June 3. Services available by mail or online will not be available at field offices, but you can make an appointment for:Driver licensing and ID cards – originals, renewals and replacements, including passenger car and commercial licenses, and instruction

Insurance emergency orders released

On May 23, 2020, the Department of Consumer and Business Services issued emergency orders for insurance companies providing property and casualty, long-term care, and life and disability insurance.   The orders require insurance companies providing these policies to do the following:Provide at least a 60-day grace period to pay any past-due premiumsPay claims for any covered losses during the first 30 days of the grace periodExtend all deadlines for reporting claims and other communications, and provide

This truck-driving couple’s Brief But Spectacular take on surviving COVID-19

Married couple Chante and Ron Drew are truck drivers transporting groceries and other essential supplies across the country. They take turns driving and sleeping. But when they came down with COVID-19, their ability to hit the road -- and earn an income -- vanished. They offer their Brief But Spectacular take on living through coronavirus.WATCH THE VIDEO

KEEPING OREGON TRUCKERS FUELED IN THE FIGHT AGAINST COVID-19 OTA Offering Free Lunch in Woodburn

Portland, OR, April 7, 2020 - As most Oregonians continue to stay inside, working remotely if possible, or finding ways to entertain and educate their children, it’s hard to remember that the world hasn’t stopped spinning. Medical personnel, first responders and essential frontline workers are keeping it moving. It’s never more obvious as when people do venture out to secure supplies. Trucks continue to deliver food and consumer goods, keeping store shelves stocked and people fed; however, truck drivers

TRUCK DRIVERS INVITED TO PICK UP A FREE LUNCH THIS THURSDAY NEAR CASCADE LOCKS

Oregon Trucking Associations Delivers Lunch, Protective Masks to Dedicated Drivers Truck Driver Receives Free Lunch in Woodburn Last Thursday Portland, OR, April 14, 2020 - Following a successful event last week, when 400 truck drivers passing through the Woodburn Point of Entry along I-5 received a free boxed lunch, Oregon Trucking Associations (OTA) is repeating this show of appreciation at the Cascade Locks Point of Entry (Eastbound Interstate 84, Milepost 44.93) this Thursday, April 16. Starting at

TRUCK DRIVERS NEAR ASHLAND RECEIVE FREE MEAL, SANITIZER AND MASKS

Oregon Trucking Associations and Volunteers from Southern Oregon Carriers Handoff 260 Lunches        Volunteer safely hands off lunch to truck driver at Ashland Port of Entry along I-5    PORTLAND, May 7, 2020 - On Wednesday, May 6, roughly 260 truck drivers passing through the Ashland Port of Entry along I-5 in Southern Oregon were able to quickly and safely grab a decent meal, something that has not been easy amid state shutdown orders due to COVID-19. Best of all, these lunches were free of

FREE MEAL OFFERED TO TRUCK DRIVERS NEAR REDMOND ON WEDNESDAY, MAY 20

Oregon Trucking Associations to Hold Fourth Meal for Drivers Event Since Pandemic Start OTA President & CEO Jana Jarvis hands off lunch to truck driver at earlier event near Cascade Locks PORTLAND, May 18, 2020 - Parts of Oregon may be waking up after several weeks of shutdown due to COVID-19, but the dedicated truck drivers who have consistently delivered necessary consumer goods and medical supplies are still facing on-the-road challenges. To offset some of these difficulties, Oregon Trucking Associations

U.S. Secretary Elaine Chao Announces New Hours of Service Rules

VIEW THE VIDEO FMCSA cited flexibility as the driving force behind these changes which will go into effect 120 days after the rule is published in the Federal Register next week.CLICK HERE for the ruling.CLICK HERE for a one page summary offered by FMCSACLICK HERE for a a side by side comparison of the previous vs. new.

Excellence in Concrete Awards

The Oregon Concrete & Aggregate Producers Association is pleased to announce this year’s winning projects selected from 78 project entries competing in 19 unique categories. These projects and companies are recognized for their exemplary use of concrete in building, design, construction, concrete paving and landscaping on projects completed within the last 2 years in Oregon and SW Washington.

Ten Years of Improved Safety on America’s Roadways

May 2020, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Pre-Employment Screening Program (PSP) entered its tenth year of operation. PSP has helped motor carriers make more informed hiring decisions by providing secure, electronic access to a commercial driver’s five-year crash and three-year inspection histories for a decade.   An FMCSA study showed that motor carriers using PSP to screen new hires lowered their crash rate by 8% and out-of-service rates by 17%, on average, compared to those

Implementation of FMCSA’s Crash Preventability Program

SUMMARY: On July 27, 2017, FMCSA announced a demonstration program to evaluate the preventability of eight categories of crashes through submissions of Requests for Data Review to its national data correction system known as DataQs. On August 5, 2019, based on experiences with the demonstration program, FMCSA proposed a Crash Preventability Determination Program with a streamlined process. FMCSA proposed to modify the Safety Measurement System to exclude crashes with not preventable determinations from the

ATRI Board Approves 2020 Top Research Priorities

Arlington, Virginia – The American Transportation Research Institute Board of Directors has approved the 2020 Top Research Priorities as identified by ATRI’s Research Advisory Committee. ATRI’s RAC developed the list of recommended research topics at its meeting held in Atlanta in March, and the ATRI Board reviewed and approved the list of recommended topics at its recent meeting. ATRI’s RAC selected research topics that examine workforce, infrastructure, legal, and operational issues, which align with

DHS Releases New Tool to Help Truck Drivers Navigate During COVID-19

Commercial vehicle drivers operating in the U.S. have a new tool they can use to help with route planning amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the IdahoNational Laboratory launched its Commercial Routing Assistance tool for truckers and other commercial drivers. This free app incorporates coordinated data streams and plots multiple routing options so commercial operators can plan and manage vehicle movements across multiple states quickly in times of disasters

Keep on trucking: Veteran driver discusses life during COVID-19

State issues emergency order for health insurance companies

State issues emergency order for health insurance companiesThe Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services extended its emergency order for health insurance companies through Aug. 2, 2020.    The order requires health insurance companies to do the following for their customers during the COVID-19 outbreak:Provide at least a 60-day grace period to pay any past-due premiumsPay claims for any covered services during the first 30 days of the grace periodExtend all deadlines for reporting claims and

Joint Research Confirms COVID-19 Impact on Trucking

ATRI, OOIDA Identify Impacts and Recommendations Atlanta, Georgia – The American Transportation Research Institute and the Owner-Operator Independent Driver Association Foundation today released important research on impacts that the Covid pandemic is having on all aspects of trucking operations, including deliveries, travel times, detention and truck parking. Most importantly, the research provides recommendations and guidance on future strategies should another national disaster strike. “The trucking

SW Terwilliger Blvd and SW Bertha Blvd Maintenance Beginning in May

VIEW ONLINE Work has begun to reinforce the beam connections and increase the weight capacity of the SW Bertha Boulevard and SW Terwilliger Boulevard on-ramp bridges. TRAFFIC IMPACTS The week of April 27, crews are setting up portable message signs and detour signs. Travelers can expect minor traffic impacts on the on-ramps and local streets.  The week of May 4, work begins on the SW Bertha Boulevard on-ramp. Work on the SW Terwilliger Boulevard on-ramp will start after construction crews

'The biggest gift I've ever gotten': Restaurant owner gets a hand after helping so many others

The owner of Beavercreek Saloon got a big hand from a business that just wanted to help a stranger. The restaurant owner knows exactly what that feels like. Author: Katherine CookPublished: 10:17 PM PDT April 30, 2020Updated: 10:49 AM PDT May 1, 2020 VIEW ARTICLE AND VIDEO ONLINE BEAVERCREEK, Ore. — If you've passed through Beavercreek, you might've eaten at the Beavercreek Saloon. If you live in Beavercreek, well, you already know what that place means to a lot of folks. Mostly because of one of its

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao Thanks America's Truckers

During these challenging times, the men and women working in the motor carrier industry are on the frontlines performing essential work. We sincerely appreciate all that they do. WATCH THE VIDEO

Drivewyze Adds Indiana to Rest Area Alerts – Provides Number of Parking Spots Available

DALLAS, April 29, 2020 – Fleets utilizing Drivewyze PreClear weigh station bypass, and its included Drivewyze Safety Notifications service, now have in-cab notifications to inform drivers of the number of parking spots available at 10 rest areas throughout Indiana.  Indiana is the first state for which Drivewyze has added parking spot availability into the COVID-19 response rest area alerts initiative. The initiative, a program run voluntarily by the Drivewyze team to help drivers during this time of need,

Coronavirus pandemic presents new challenges, hurdles for truckers: 'This is our work from home'

American truck drivers are still moving the vast majority of American freight, even as the coronavirus upends their lives and industry. “We keep America moving. That's just how it is going to be out here,” Ron Round, a Maine-based truck driver, tells "Tucker Carlson Tonight". Round starts each day at 5 a.m., running hauls from Bangor to various wood pulp mills around the state. The industrial product of the pulp mills eventually gets turned into paper. “This is our work from home,” Round says. “The cab

Daimler Trucks restarts Portland plant after nearly a month

Manufacturing resumed early Monday at Daimler Trucks’ factory on Swan Island, nearly four weeks after it closed during the early days of Oregon’s coronavirus outbreak.The closure put 600 Portland employees on unpaid furlough. Daimler initially blamed a parts shortage for the closure, but unions representing the plant’s employees said their members’ concerns about worker safety were also a factor.   “They heard from the unions, loud and clear, that the membership was very nervous,” said Dwain Panian of

New Data Show COVID-19 Impacts on the Trucking Industry

Atlanta, GA – Today, the American Transportation Research Institute is releasing new data that quantifies the continued impacts of COVID-19 business disruptions on the trucking industry.  ATRI’s latest analysis looked at truck activity across six states from February 9 through the most recent week ending April 18, by converting its real-time truck GPS dataset into a truck activity index.  “The GPS data we use is a valuable tool into what is going on in the economy and the trucking industry right now,” said

The Volvo Group and Daimler Truck AG to lead the development of sustainable transportation

Sharing the Green Deal vision of sustainable transport and a carbon neutral Europe by 2050, two leading companies in the commercial vehicle industry, Daimler Truck AG and the Volvo Group, have signed a preliminary non-binding agreement to establish a new joint venture. The intention is to develop, produce and commercialize fuel cell systems for heavy-duty vehicle applications and other use cases. Daimler will consolidate all its current fuel cell activities in the joint venture. The Volvo Group will

CORONAVIRUS ‘We’re Literally Making It Up As We Go:’ A Truck Driver Amidst A Pandemic

As many parts of life have slowed, our country’s supply chain hasn’t. And commercial truck drivers are a crucial part of that chain. Jess Graham is an over-the-road, owner-operator truck driver working for GTO Trucking in Snellville, Georgia. She’s been driving trucks since 2012. The coronavirus pandemic, she said, has sped up the pace of her job as food and medicine are being shipped at much higher volume. She’s doing about double her normal weekly mileage. “It’s utter chaos, and we are just literally

SmartDrive - Everyday Heroes in Transportation Driver Nominations

SmartDrive launched the Everyday Heroes in Trucking awards to recognize and thank the drivers who are on the front lines, keeping our grocery shelves stocked and medical care facilities supplied. They do this every day, but this pandemic has offered the opportunity to really showcase how challenging the job is and how integral it is to our everyday life. Most of all, it is our way of saying thank you! We'll be awarding and highlighting drivers each week and want to make sure that the word is out.

Apply to serve on Equity and Mobility Advisory Committee: Application period extended to May 1

Apply for at-large positions to develop equitable mobility strategies   We are forming an Equity and Mobility Advisory Committee (EMAC) to advise on how tolling on I-5 and I-205 freeways, in combination with other strategies, can include benefits for populations that have historically been underserved and underrepresented by transportation projects. Advice will be provided to the Oregon Transportation Commission and Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). In providing input to the OTC, the Committee

Commerce and Compliance Division (CCD) Closed This Weekend

Commerce and Compliance after-hours Contact Center will be closed this weekend, starting Friday, April 17 at 5pm PT until opening Monday morning, April 20. We apologize for any inconvenience, and urge motor carriers to plan ahead if you have any transactions to complete this week. Remember, many transactions can be conducted online, 24/7 at Oregon Trucking Online!   Use Oregon Trucking Online We continue to encourage motor carriers to take advantage of the many services available to them through

ODOT Releases Request for Proposals for I-5 Rose Quarter Improvement Project

For Immediate Release: April 13, 2020 Contact: April deLeon-Galloway, 971-233-6514 PORTLAND – The Oregon Department of Transportation today released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC) for the Portland-area I-5 Rose Quarter Improvement Project. The CM/GC will provide input during the design phase, including helping to optimize project elements, increase efficiency, and identify and mitigate risks before the start of construction. The CM/GC will help make

Oregon OSHA to formally begin spot-checks in ramped up effort against COVID-19

VIEW ONLINE (Salem) – Ramping up its enforcement activity, Oregon OSHA will begin systematically conducting spot checks to verify that employers are complying with requirements – including closures to the public – aimed at curbing the coronavirus pandemic. The spot checks – which are in addition to more time-intensive, on-site inspections initiated by the division – are intended to confirm whether employers are actually doing what they are telling the division they are doing in response to

National Fraternal Order of Police Urge Governments to Not Impede Trucks in COVID-19 Response

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New Start Date: Emergency Paid Sick Leave (EPSL) & Expanded FMLA (EFMLA) Leave Now Required April 1

Yesterday, the United States Department of Labor announced initial regulatory guidance for the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA).  Most importantly, this guidance moves up the effective date of the legislation by one day.  As a result, employers should be preparing to provide emergency paid sick leave and expanded FMLA leave starting April 1.  The DOL guidance documents preview answers for some (but not all) of the other questions employers are asking after the passage of FFCRA, including how

Scared drivers press on toward looming freight cliff

A train coming to a sudden stop is how veteran driver Henry Albert describes what truckers will soon face in seeking freight loads to haul. “When the front of a train stops, the slack between the couplers comes out,” he said. “I can see for the first time that there are trucks coming out of the equation.” Trucking companies last week began to accept loads they would have rejected two weeks ago. There are fewer loads to choose from as the coronavirus pandemic shuts down all but essential businesses like

Truckers keep country running during COVID-19 pandemic

RICHMOND, Va. -- While many are self-quarantined at home with the prospect, there's a select group of men and women behind the scenes, behind the wheel, helping to resupply empty store shelves. The truck drivers of America are on the front lines, getting food and medical supplies to stores.READ THE FULL ARTICLE ONLINE

IRS News for Everyone - April 2020

►UPCOMING WEBINARS  We expect to have a webinar in April, but the date is not set yet. Please check Webinars for Tax Practitionersor Webinars for Small Businesses for updates.    ►CORONAVIRUS TAX RELIEF  Coronavirus Tax Relief   This is the main page on IRS.gov with information about Coronavirus Tax Relief.   Check this page frequently for new information.   It has News Releases, Statements, Frequently Asked Questions, Guidance, Tax Help, Social Media and Other Resources.    FAQs for Filing

Statement on State and Local Shelter in Place and Other Restrictions on Movement Relating to COVID

FMCSA Statement on Local Restrictions.pdfStatement on State and Local Shelter in Place andOther Restrictions on Movement Relating to COVID-19Note:  This guidance document does not have the force and effect of law and is not meant to bind the public in any way.  This guidance is intended only to provide clarity regarding existing requirements under the law.The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is aware that States, localities and territories have implemented or may consider implementing

SBA: Notification of change to Express Bridge Loan Pilot Program and extension of pilot program

The Small Business Administration (SBA) published a notice expanding eligibility for its Express Bridge Loan Pilot Program (Express Bridge Pilot) in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.  As originally announced in October 2017, the Express Bridge Pilot authorizes certain SBA lenders to provide expedited SBA-guaranteed bridge loan financing on an emergency basis in amounts up to $25,000 for disaster-related purposes to small businesses located in communities affected by Presidentially-declared disasters while

Truck drivers busy-as-ever during coronavirus shutdown

VIEW THE VIDEO SANTA MARIA, Calif - Add truck driver to the list of essential workers everyone should be thanking during the coronavirus crisis. While many workers are now at home, they keep on truck'in! Drivers continue to deliver everything the community needs to local stores that remain open. The demand for product in grocery stores, big box stores and others are at an all-time high. Local truckers can feel the importance of their work. "Important sure for people, they need some products," Denis

Nebraska Truckers Association provides free lunches for truckers

VIEW THE VIDEO OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) - The Nebraska Truckers Association provided free lunches for truck drivers on the road Thursday. The group has already did this in Grand Island and Lincoln and now Thursday in the Omaha area, serving meals at Sapp Brothers truck stop. They said they do this because they want their drivers to feel appreciated and know how much they're needed. “Without the truck drivers, those empty store shelves are going to stay empty,” said Kent Grisham of the Nebraska Trucking

‘It’s Vital That We Supply Food For People At This Time’

VIEW THE VIDEO PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – They are the unsung heroes. One truck driver said, “if we slow down, America stops.” A lot of folks are on the frontlines fighting this coronavirus pandemic: health care workers, police and fire fighters. Right alongside them on the highways are truckers. They’re moving goods, medical supplies and produce up and down the highways, making sure shelves are stocked and supplies are where they need to be. James White is one of them. “Although I am concerned for myself, I have

Alabama trucking industry keeps on truckin’ in tough times

Truckin’ is an American tradition, the subject of Eddie Kendricks and Grateful Dead tunes, a Robert Crump cartoon character strutting confidently across the continent, and today an industry needed more than ever.READ THE ARTICLE

KATU - Free lunch for truckers Thursday at Oregon's Woodburn Port of Entry

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Deadline Reminder for RUAF and Flat Fee Carriers

To clarify confusion: Tomorrow, Wednesday April 8, is the day of two deadlines for some motor carriers. For RUAF carriers, tomorrow is the due date for your February 2020 RUAF reports. For flat fee carriers, tomorrow is the suspension date for those who have not submitted their February 2020 flat fee reports. This reminder is only for those carriers who must file RUAF and flat fee reports.   Make things as easy as possible – use Oregon Trucking Online!  Use Oregon Trucking Online We continue to

PHMSA Issues Temporary Relief to Companies Transporting Hand Sanitizer by Highway

Thursday, April 2, 2020 In support of the critical need to move hazardous materials during the COVID-19 public health emergency, PHMSA issued a temporary relief notice for companies shipping hand sanitizers used for sanitation purposes.  The temporary relief is to help facilitate the increased availability of sanitation products during this public health emergency.  The current relief applies to hand sanitizer products meeting certain specifications and shipped by highway only. Shipments by other modes of

EPA Continues to Add New Surface Disinfectant Products to List N in Effort to Combat COVID-19

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is continuing its commitment to increasing the availability of surface disinfectants for use against SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19. List N: Disinfectants for use against SARS-CoV-2 (List N) now contains over 360 products and has enhanced functionality to allow users to sort these products by surface type and use site. EPA is also continuing to expedite the review process for new disinfectants.READ THE FULL ARTICLE

Banks warn of chaotic launch of small business lending program

Banks are warning that a $350 billion lending program for struggling small businesses won't be ready when it launches Friday because the Trump administration has failed to provide them with the necessary guidelines and has set requirements for the loans that are unworkable.READ THE FULL ARTICLE

Government, industry work to stock shelves

KANSAS CITY — The food industry, in addition to President Donald Trump and others, have stressed that food supplies are adequate during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. But getting those supplies where they need to be has proven to be a challenge as buying patterns shift and “panic” buying creates temporary shortages of certain grocery staples.READ THE FULL ARTICLE ONLINE

Trucking Trends for Drivers and Fleets to Watch

While the coronavirus is having a massive impact on trucking, the industry continues moving along, delivering needed supplies. This means there are still big issues that both drivers and fleets face. Listen to this episode of the “Eyes on the Road” podcast, presented by PrePass, as host Evan Lockridge talks with Kelly Frey with PrePass about five trends that will shape trucking in 2020 and beyond. They talk about the effects of marijuana legalization and changing driver demographics in trucking as well

Spicer & Co.: A conversation with ATA President and CEO Chris Spear

ATA’s Chris Spear discusses how COVID-19 is affecting America’s trucking industry.VIEW THE VIDEO ONLINE

Coronavirus (COVID-19): Small Business Guidance & Loan Resources

Health and government officials are working together to maintain the safety, security, and health of the American people. Small businesses are encouraged to do their part to keep their employees, customers, and themselves healthy.  Paycheck Protection Program The Paycheck Protection Program prioritizes millions of Americans employed by small businesses by authorizing up to $349 billion toward job retention and certain other expenses. Small businesses and eligible nonprofit organizations, Veterans

Pelosi Looks to Infrastructure for Next Coronavirus Crisis Response

House Democrats see infrastructure investment as a key element in helping the nation rebound from the coronavirus pandemic, and are working to advance a multiyear legislative response that will prioritize improvements to freight and commuter mobility, Speaker Nancy Pelosi told reporters April 1.READ THE ARTICLE ONLINE

CITY OF LAREDO AMENDED EMERGENCY ORDINANCE

The Laredo City Council approved a measure requiring all persons over the age of five to wear some form of covering over their nose and mouth, such as a homemade mask, scarf, bandana, or handkerchief, when entering into or inside of any building open to the public; when using public transportation, taxis, or ride shares; or when pumping gas.    This does not apply when a person is engaging in a permissible outside physical activity; that are riding in a personal vehicle; that are alone in a separate

OTC Approves Rose Quarter Project Environmental Assessment and Continuation of Community Engagement

VIEW ONLINE April 2, 2020 Contact: April deLeon-Galloway, 971-233-6514 PORTLAND - Today, the Oregon Transportation Commission approved continuing the federal Environmental Assessment process for the I-5 Rose Quarter Improvement Project.  The Commission directed ODOT to continue to work with local government partners on a set of actions the Commission approved in January.  Those include:Retaining a consultant to develop alternative design concepts for highway covers over I-5 in the Rose Quarter area

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF IN THE AGE OF VIDEOCONFERENCING CALLS

Zoom calls, for one, aren’t as private as you may think. Here are some ways to protect yourself as we work—and play—at home during the pandemic. Suddenly, videoconferencing is everywhere. We use it for work, for school, for exercise, and to socialize during the coronavirus pandemic. But there is a darker side, privacy experts say. The Silicon Valley videoconferencing app Zoom, in particular, is finding itself under scrutiny for data privacy and security concerns. The app—which reserves the right to store

FEMA leans on largest carriers to ensure supply chains hold up to COVID-19

The U.S. death toll could vary by more than 100,000 depending on the health care system’s ability to care for those stricken with coronavirus. A lot of that care is dependent on a strong supply chain.READ THE FULL ARTICLE ONLINE

Daimler and Mack offer financial assistance during COVID-19

Both companies have created programs to assist their customers in the hopes that it will manage cash flow and keep up with current delivery demands.READ THE FULL ARTICLE ONLINE

Portland, Multnomah County allow businesses to defer income tax

Business License Tax – Mayor Wheeler has announced that they are looking to delay payments due till July 15th. Multnomah County Business Income Tax – Chair Kafoury has announced that they county will delay payments due till July 15th.    Portland-area business income tax deadlines have been extended because of the coronavirus outbreak, authorities say. Portland and Multnomah County officials announced Friday that the deadline to pay and file taxes is now July 15, three months after the typical April 15

FMCSA provides relief for driver training hit by COVID-19

A three-month waiver lifting certain restrictions for drivers with learner’s permits will help keep them on a path toward receiving their commercial driver’s license (CDL) despite barriers raised by COVID-19, according to federal regulators.READ THE FULL ARTICLE ONLINE

FMCSA Issues COVID-19 Waiver for Truck Drivers With Learner Permits

Federal trucking regulators have issued a three-month waiver that will allow truck drivers with commercial learner permits to operate during the COVID-19 emergency without a commercial licensed driver in the front seat of the cab, provided the CDL driver is in the truck. READ THE FULL ARTICLE ONLINE

Legal waivers help keep commercial drivers on road

VIEW ONLINE For more information: (503) 373-0000, option 1 for information about over-dimension loads; (503) 378-6699 for information about registration services   April 1, 2020SALEM -- The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and Oregon DMV have taken steps to help keep the holders of commercial driver licenses (CDL) and commercial learner permits (CLP) on the road during the COVID-19 response.DMV is continuing to provide CLP knowledge tests and first-time CDL issuances by appointment only

Today is April 1: Know What Documentation to Collect From Employees Requesting FFCRA

Buried deep in the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) FAQs related to federal paid COVID-19 leave and published yesterday were concrete examples of information verifying the employee need for Emergency Paid Sick Leave (EPSL) and Expanded FMLA (EFMLA) leave.The IRS published these criteria to establish the necessary documentation to substantiate eligibility for the tax credits.  But the Department of Labor has deferred to the IRS on this topic, instructing employers: “You are not required to provide leave if

How is coronavirus affecting the supply chain?

How is the coronavirus affecting those on the front lines of freight? In this video you'll hear first hand how COVID-19 is changing life for drivers, fleet owners and 3PLs. Watch the video

Food Heroes

The grocery and logistics industries unite during the COVID-19 pandemic.WATCH THE VIDEO

Indiana DOR Waiving Certain Motor Carrier Requirements due to COVID-19

March 31, 2020 Effective today, and in support of Governor Eric Holcomb’s Executive Order 20-02 declaring a public health disaster emergency in Indiana due to COVID-19, Indiana Department of Revenue (DOR) Commissioner Bob Grennes has waived several Motor Carrier Services (MCS) requirements until May 22, 2020. The waivers affect:Out-of-state motor carriers who are delivering COVID-19 supplies do not need to obtain trip permits or register with the International Registration Plan (IRP) or the

Stay Metrics Driving Retention: COVID-19 Survey for Truckers

We need your help to understand the effect of COVID-19 on the trucking industry...During this unprecedented time, Stay Metrics wanted to make sure that the voices and concerns of drivers are being heard and amplified.   This brief questionnaire was developed to try and identify ways in which drivers are being most impacted. All data collected and aggregated will be completely confidential, and all results will be made available to the public. The survey is open to all drivers. We hope that you can use

UPS driver: It's essential that I'm out here

Delivery workers and grocers, deemed critical by the government, risk exposure during the coronavirus pandemic. Companies like UPS and FreshDirect say they are following CDC and WHO guidelines for social distancing and hygiene protocols. CNN's Vanessa Yurkevich reports. WATCH THE VIDEO

National Tank Truck Carriers and American Chemistry Council: Coronavirus Guidance Document

NTTC has collaborated with the American Chemistry Council to compile and distribute example guidance for chemical shippers, carriers, and the general public to reduce the spread of COVID-19. You can download the document here. 

Real ID enforcement deadline delayed for one year

Motor carriers in Italy share lessons learned from COVID-19 outbreak

READ THE ARTICLE ONLINE Transportation companies in Italy are moving freight in the epicenter of the world’s COVID-19 pandemic, but that center could soon shift to the United States. Pierro Savazzi, communication and relations director of FIAP, a business association for Italian carriers, participated in a video conference hosted by Stay Metrics Tuesday, Mar. 24.   FIAP was created 70 years ago and its members operate at least 40 trucks. Savazzi was quarantined, speaking to conference attendees from

Unintended consequences: Coronavirus quarantines lead to faster truck speeds through U.S. traffic

READ THE ARTICLE ONLINE According to transportation analytics firm INRIX, Inc., Americans lose 99 hours a year to traffic congestion and lost $88 billion in productivity last year – an average of $1,377 per person per-year. From 2017 to 2019 the average time lost by drivers in the U.S. has increased by two hours as economic and urban growth continue nationally. Congestion hits freight carriers harder than anyone. American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) estimates traffic delays cost the

Showers of Praise Greet Busy Truckers

Monica Ybarra of TBS Factoring Service holds a sign reading "Sandwiches 4 Semis." (Sue Ogrocki/Associated Press) [Stay on top of transportation news: Get TTNews in your inbox.] As truck drivers crisscross the country hauling goods vital to the fight against the coronavirus, they find themselves at the center of another fast-spreading outbreak: nationwide gratitude. It’s showing up along the roads, on TV, in emails and social media, and even at the White House. Fleets, too, are not only showering their

Oregon’s Front Line Hard at Work

READ THE ARTICLE ONLINE Governor Kate Brown thanks frontline workers in grocery stores, energy providers, truckers, and more OREGON — While many people are staying home to help flatten the curve and save lives, others save lives at work, like health care workers and first responders. But grocery stores, utility companies, and trucking companies also need their employees to report to work during the COVID-19 crisis. So how are these organizations changing their practices and keeping both staff and

Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers to Plan and Respond to Coronavirus Disease 2019

Summary of Changes to the Guidance:Below are changes as of March 21, 2020Updated cleaning and disinfection guidanceUpdated best practices for conducting social distancingUpdated strategies and recommendations that can be implemented now to respond to COVID-19READ ONLINE

DISINFECTING GUIDELINES

DISINFECTING GUIDELINES: In order to disinfect against the novel coronavirus that causes the disease COVID-19 and also avoid damaging surface finishes in customer trucks, below are the recommended disinfecting methods.   CONTACT TIME - According to the EPA: the contact time is the amount of time the surface should be treated for. The surface should be visibly wet for the duration of the contact time. Contact time varies widely by brand, product, and application method (wipe vs. spray). Check the full

Update: Full Closure – I-84 EB MP 16.70 to MP 17.50

READ ONLINE For more information: (503) 373-0000, option 1 for information about over-dimension loads; (503) 378-6699 for information about registration services March 27, 2020TROUTDALE – Beginning Tuesday, April 14, this section of I-84 eastbound will be closed at night from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. The closure is necessary for night paving. The estimated completion date for this project is April 16.   DetourWhen this section of I-84 eastbound is closed, traffic will be directed to take exit 17 to

'I've been putting in 11,12, 13-hour days': Truckers haul essential items during pandemic

LAS VEGAS, Nev. (KSNV) – This moment, thousands of truck drivers are pushing through our highways, each, doing their role to keep stores stocked and haul over necessary medical supplies. Truckers like Michael Franklin have spent the past few weeks on the road nearly all day and all night."I've been putting in 11,12,13-hour days," said Franklin. "Get a few hours of sleep, then go right back at it."READ THE FULL ARTICLE ONLINE

SAIF establishes $10 million COVID-19 worker safety fund

SAIF Policy Holders,    Yesterday, our board of directors approved a $10 million COVID-19 worker safety fund. The fund is designed to support employee safety, reduce injuries, and decrease exposures by helping businesses impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. The fund will help policyholders pay for expenses tied to making workplaces safer against the virus and dealing with the impact of the pandemic on workers. This includes worksite cleaning and disinfection supplies; resources to reopen businesses safely

Oregon-Columbia chapter of AGC urges stricter practices to protect workers from COVID-19

The local chapter says strict adherence is necessary to avoid a construction ban similar to that of Washington state.READ THE ARTICLE ONLINE

Congress passes, President signs ''Phase Three'' emergency legislation with important relief

• On 3/27/20, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, following the Senate's unanimous, bipartisan 96-0 vote of approval earlier this week. President Trump soon after signed the "Phase 3" emergency COVID-19 relief legislation into law. The legislation provides critical assistance to small- and midsize motor carriers needed to maintain payrolls, the economy’s supply lines and the movement of essential goods that all Americans rely

EPA Temporarily Suspends Enforcement of Environmental Rules

The Environmental Protection Agency has announced it is temporarily suspending enforcement of its environmental rules, saying it will “generally not seek stipulated or other penalties for noncompliance” during the COVID-19 outbreak. The announcement, outlined in a March 26 memo from EPA’s assistant administrator for enforcement and compliance assurance to all governmental and private sector partners, said the temporary policy will apply retroactively beginning March 13. “EPA is committed to protecting

CISA Guidance Template Letter for Company Drivers

Truck Drivers have been designated as essential critical infrastructure workers by the Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. Although the document below is not required, it may come in handy for a driver especially when dealing with law enforcement personnel not overly familiar with industry practices and trying to enforce something like a local “shelter-in-place” declaration.DOWNLOAD THE TEMPLATE

Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA or Act) - FMLA Update & Posters Out

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division (WHD) announced its first round of published guidance to provide information to employees and employers about how each will be able to take advantage of the protections and relief offered by the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) when it takes effect on April 1, 2020. FFCRA will help the United States combat and defeat COVID-19 by giving all American businesses with fewer than 500 employees funds to provide

ODOT Rest Areas Open Statewide

VIEW ONLINE March 25, 2020        For more information contact ODOT PIO Gary Warner, 541-817-3456   SALEM - ODOT rest areas along the interstates and state highways remain open during the COVID-19 public health emergency.  “We have no plans to close the rest areas as long as we have the staff and cleaning supplies,” said Vivian Payne, ODOT Interim Maintenance and Operations Branch Manager. But Payne said the public has a key role in ensuring the rest areas will not be infection points for the

New Emergency Order Issued By the Oregon Dept. of Consumer and Business Services

The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services issued a temporary emergency order today in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. It requires all insurance companies to extend grace periods for premium payments, postpone policy cancellations and nonrenewals, and extend deadlines for reporting claims.Insurance companies must take steps immediately to do the following until the order is no longer in effect:Institute a grace period for premium payments on all insurance policies issued in the stateSuspend

Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19

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SBA Providing Disaster Assistance Loans for Small Businesses Impacted by Coronavirus (COVID-19)

U.S. Small Business AdministrationThe SBA is working directly with state Governors to provide targeted, low-interest loans to small businesses and non-profits that have been severely impacted by the Coronavirus (COVID-19). The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program provides small businesses with working capital loans of up to $2 million that can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing. Small business owners in many states

Operation Lifesaver Inc. - Rail Safety for Cement, Dump and Garbage Truck Drivers

This video shows drivers of cement, dump and garbage trucks how to safely navigate railroad crossings along their routes to avoid tragedy at the tracks.  

What you need to know about Real ID

Do you need a Real ID?Something big is happening October first of this year. If you aren’t paying attention, it might mean missing your flight out of PDX or any other airport across the U.S.On that date the Transportation Security Administration, or TSA, begins requiring a new type of identification to board a commercial aircraft. The new ID must be compliant with something called the Real ID Act. It’s designed to keep us safer in the air, but if you try to board an aircraft using your current Oregon driver

Outer Powell Transportation Safety Project

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.Construction Update New sidewalks and bike lanes open on the south side of Powell Boulevard Construction of safety improvements on the south side of SE Powell Boulevard from 122nd to 136th Avenues is complete! Take a walk, roll, or bike ride eastbound on Outer Powell Boulevard to see the improvements including new sidewalks, bike lanes and lighting, as well as a new waterline and stormwater system. A new cycle track on eastbound Powell Boulevard

New Youngs Bay Bridge repair project to begin in March

Major bridge work to take over two years to completeASTORIA—Major repairs to the New Youngs Bay Bridge, an important connection between Astoria and Warrenton on U.S. 101, will begin in March. The extensive repair work is expected to take over two years to complete (2019-2021).What can the traveling public expect:Periodic single lane closures at night to allow the contractor to move equipment. The lane closures will be Sunday night through Friday morning, 9 p.m. to 5:30 a.m.;A complete two week night time